1. Prologue……………….....………………2 • Report of the International Conference Held at University of Helsinki by Prof. Junichi Mori, Kyoto • Weather and Life by Director Hideo Akutsu, JSPS University Stockholm Office (2) Alumni………………………...... ……………………………...... 12 2. News…..………………..………….………3 • Report on “The 4th Sweden-Japan Academic (1) Activities………………………………………….……………………3 Network” and “JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden 10-Year • Symposium “Issues of Recognition in Pragmatism and Anniversary Symposium” by Prof. Imre Pázsit, American Transcendentalism” Held in Helsinki Chalmers University of Technology • New Year Reception Held at the Ambassador’s • JSPS-Linköping University Seminar by Prof. Takeo Residence in Sweden Kubota, Yamanashi University • KVA-JSPS Seminar with Prof. Takashi Kadowaki • JSPS BRIDGE Fellowship Research Report (SAC), by Dr. Niclas Bernhoff, Karlstad University (2) Alumni………………………………….……………………………….5 • JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden’s (SAC) Joint Board (3) Meetings………………….…….……………………………………17 Meeting and General Assembly • The 4th Sweden-Japan Academic Network 4. Column…………………………………..20 • JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden’s (SAC) 10-Year • Robot Farm in Japan to Produce Lettuce Anniversary Symposium • SAC Activity Seminar FY2015: “Epigenetics in Disease and Well-Being” 5. Academic Information……………..21 • Japan Alumni Forum 2016 • H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf visited Japan with the Royal • JSPS Alumni Club in Denmark Held the 2nd Board Technology Mission Meeting and the 1st General Assembly • Prof. Tomoko M. Nakanishi, the University of Tokyo, • Japan Alumni and Researcher Assembly 2016 Elected as Foreign Member of IVA • University of Bergen and Norwegian University of 3. Reports……………..……………………10 Science and Technology Unite to Strengthen Collaboration with Japan (1) Activities…….………………….……………………………………10 • International Workshop on Flow Dynamics and Spintronics by Prof. Toshiyuki Hayase, Tohoku 6. Notice…………………..………………..23 University • Upcoming Seminars & Symposia 1. Prologue Weather and Life By Director Hideo Akutsu, JSPS Stockholm Office
own way. It is not rear to find walkers in a T-shirt and in a down jacket side by side on a street. This kind of diversity would be one of reasons of their international success in artistic fields and fashion businesses. However, the cold and unstable weather was a serious challenge for Swedish farmers, who were the major working class in the Middle Ages. People looked for jobs independent of weather, which were fulfilled by the Industrial Revolution. It was fortunate for Sweden to have had rich mineral resources. Thanks to Hanseatic League merchants and German mine owners, Sweden started to export iron and could introduce modern technology of iron and steel production. In the seventeenth century, Parks are favorites of families with small children in Sweden became one of the major countries to export iron everywhere. People enjoy relaxed atmosphere surrounded and steel products in Europe. One of those Ironworks, the by flowers and trees changing their colors with the season. Engelsberg Ironworks built in 1681, still provides a historic Interestingly, the impression of the four seasons in monument as a UNESCO World Treasure. Sweden also Stockholm is quite different from that in Japan. The spring contributed to the innovation of iron refinery. In 1856 in Japan brings southern winds and activates lives in the Henry Bessemer, a British refiner, invented an innovative earth, on the soil, and in the sky. In Stockholm, however, method for iron-refining, which required only air flow. the spring is not necessary warm. Temperature does not Unfortunately it worked only in his refinery. So, it was not tell us the start of spring. Looking at the nature, however, recognized as a major innovative method at first. the spring is as impressive as in Japan. Grasses and trees However, Swedish refinery engineers uncovered the key color in green and carry flowers and blossoms. Pretty issue of this method, using chemical analysis. The flowers in an almost snowing weather warm our heart. Bessemer’s method could work only for the iron ores, Migratory birds do not miss the time to visit Sweden and which did not contain phosphorus and sulfur. Thus, the start hatching baby birds. How do they recognize the innovative method revived and became a standard 1 spring in such a cold weather? The length of day time method . This fact clearly reveals an outstanding level of changes dramatically with passage of time in Sweden. It is Swedish technology at that time. Sweden was a major shortest in winter and longest in summer, giving rise to no iron/steel export country even in the 20th century. In the sun-rise and no sun-set in the far north, respectively. W. World War II, the Allied and Nazi Germany carried out W. Garner and H. A. Allard actually found the critical role mortal battles to get control of Narvik in Norway, which of the day-time duration on the growth of a flower-bud in was the ice-free harbor for export of the Swedish an experiment on cultivation of soybeans in 1920. It is iron/steel products. called photoperiodism. Later experiments made it clear The steel industry of Sweden has promoted the that the length of darkness at night rather than the day development of various industries that use irons, then the time is the real decisive factor. It is reasonable in the light development of chemical industry and information of Swedish spring. Since there are many cloudy and dark technology industry have followed. Nowadays the major days, the day light cannot provide the flower bud with the working people in Sweden do not need to worry about convincing information on the start of spring. Animals also weather in their jobs anymore. Nevertheless, it seems show photoperiodism in certain organs such as gonads. affecting the mentality of Swedes in many ways. They are Therefore, we may conclude that plants and animals in very patient as well as plants and animals in this area. They Sweden recognize the spring by the change in night have patiently made every effort to avoid wars for more duration irrespective of the sensible temperature. than 200 years in the centuries of wars. Swedish scientists Since flowers and blossoms do not miss the spring, such as Dr. Carl von Linné have carried out tenacious people take them as the messenger of spring. Thus, sense investigations, leading to outstanding achievements. In of the season for Swedes is also regulated by the length of everyday life, Swedes wait patiently for the recovery on a night rather than the sensible temperature. When flowers sudden stop or delay of public transportation. and blossoms come out, the spring turned the corner even in the snow. People celebrate the mid-summer day on the summer solstice even if the weather is cold. This kind of mismatch between the solar calendar and the weather seems to affect the life style and mentality of Swedes. The 1http://www.jernkontoret.se/en/the-steel-industry/the-history- key word is diversity. People present themselves in their of-swedish-steel-industry/
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 2 2. News (1) Activities
Symposium “Issues of Recognition in Pragmatism and American Transcendentalism” Held in Helsinki On December 16-18, Kyoto University, the Centre of Excellence Reason and Religious Recognition (Academy of Finland, University of Helsinki, Faculty of Theology), Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies, and JSPS Stockholm Office, co-organized the symposium "Issues of Recognition in Pragmatism and American Transcendentalism” at the University of Helsinki. The symposium was opened with welcome greetings by Prof. Risto Saarinen Helsinki University, Prof. Sami Pihlström, Helsinki University, and Prof. Junichi Mori, Kyoto University. Deputy Director Yuriko Kawakubo of JSPS Stockholm Office introduced JSPS programs and the activities of the office, followed by Prof. Mori and Assoc. Prof. Jeremy Rappleye, Kyoto University, explaining the concept of the SPIRITS (Supporting Program for Interaction-based Initiative Team Studies) project "Philosophy as Translation and Understanding Other Cultures". Speakers from Japan included Prof. Keiko Matsui Gibson, Kanda University of International Studies, Prof. Nobuo Kazashi, Kobe University, and several students from Kyoto University. Other speakers represented the University of Helsinki, Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies, University of Tampere, the University of Leipzig, University College London, and University College Dublin. All participants actively exchanged views in a philosophical discussion on the theme of recognition. Please find a report by Prof. Junichi Mori on page 11.
New Year Reception Held at the Ambassador’s Residence in Sweden
On January 21, a New Year Reception was held at the Ambassador’s Residence in Sweden. Invited guests included members of the Japanese Associations in Sweden, Japanese Businessmen’s Club and others with close relations to Japan. The reception was opened with a speech by H.E. Ambassador Jun Yamazaki. The Ambassador mentioned that he had recently arrived in Sweden and how he wished to contribute to the strengthening of the bilateral cooperation between Japan and Sweden. Following his speech, greetings were given by Ms. Yoko Kaneko, Chair of the Japanese Association in Stockholm, and Mr. Kenichi Outeki, Chair of the Japanese Businessmen’s Club in Stockholm. Together with the Ambassador, Ms. Kaneko and Mr. Outeki performed the Japanese tradition “kagami biraki”, a ceremonial way of opening a cask of Japanese sake. Guests born in the year of the Monkey were also welcome to participate in “mochitsuki”, the traditional way of pounding Japanese rice cake. Director Hideo Akutsu participatingin mochitsuki.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 3 2. News (1) Activities KVA-JSPS Seminar with Prof. Takashi Kadowaki
Since 2009, JSPS Stockholm Office has together with the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences organized seminars with Japanese lecturers. The third and final seminar in the KVA-JSPS seminar series FY2015, was held from February 1-3 at Karolinska Institutet, Lund University and Gothenburg University. The invited speaker from Japan was Prof. Takashi Kadowaki, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo. The title of Prof. Kadowaki’s lecture at the seminar held at Karolinska Institutet was “Molecular Mehanism of Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes”. At Lund University, he gave the lecture titled “Genetic and Environmental Factors in the Pathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes”. On the third seminar day, Prof. Kadowaki focused on the “Brown and White Adipose Tissues in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes” at Gothenburg University. Dr. Hideo Akutsu, Director of JSPS Stockholm Office, participated in each seminar and briefly introduced JSPS programs available for researchers, encouraging the seminar participants to apply. The seminars were attended by more than 200 students and researchers who actively participated in the discussions held after each of Prof. Kadowaki’s lectures. (A report by Prof. Kadowaki will be published in the next issue of our English newsletter.)
Prof. Takashi Kadowaki and his host at Karolinska Institutet, Director Hideo Akutsu introducing JSPS programs at Lund Prof. Juleen Zierath, listening to a question from the University. audience.
Participants listeningintently at Gothenburg University.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 4 2. News (2) Alumni JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden’s (SAC) Joint Board Meeting and General Assembly
On January 14, the JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden (SAC) held its annual joint board meeting and General Assembly at the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences (KVA), prior to the 4th Sweden-Japan Academic Network. On the occasion of the Club’s 10-Year Anniversary, Dr. Takaaki Iwasa, Executive Director of JSPS, attended the meeting to congratulate the Club. The main topic of the agenda was the election of board members, as it had been 3 years since the last election was held. Several members who could not attend the meeting in person had delegated their votes Dr. Thomas Lennerfors giving a presentation on his SAC to the meeting chair, and some had notified of their Activity Seminar. interest in becoming a member of the board. The new board was selected with the following members: which he organized in September 2015. The invited - Prof. Göran Thor, Swedish University of Agricultural speaker from Japan was Assoc Prof. Takashi Majima Sciences (SLU), Chair form Senshu University, who gave the lecture titled - Dr. Elin Palm, Linköping University, Vice-chair “From Green to Smart: The Impact of Fukushima on - Prof. Imre Pazsit, Chalmers University of Technology Green IT in Japan”. Other lecturers included local - Prof. Lars Öhrström, Chalmers University of Swedish, as well as Japanese and foreign scholars active Technology in Japan. - Prof. Mohammad Asadzadeh, Chalmers University of The seminar was attended by students and teachers Technology from various fields which led to interesting discussions - Dr. Joel Peterson, Borås University from an ethical, and philosophical point of view. - Dr. Thomas Lennerfors, Uppsala University. After a question and answer session regarding Dr. A report was given on the Clubs activities during Lennerfors’ seminar, the meeting was concluded by FY2015, the tentative activity plan for FY2016 was welcoming 11 new members to the club. reviewed and Dr. Lennerfors gave a presentation on his JSPS Stockholm Office encourages all alumni to join SAC Activity Seminar “Japanese Ethics and Technology”, alumni activities!
The 4th Sweden-Japan Academic Network
This year, the event was attended by 88 people, eager to listen to the keynote speakers Prof. Emeritus Kojiro Nishina, Nagoya University, and Prof. Karl Grandin, Director of Center for History of Science, KVA. Prof. Nishina spoke of the “collaboration of doctors Yoshio Nishina and Oskar Klein, and its impact on Japanese physics”, while Prof. Grandin spoke of the “Swedish- Japanese scientific exchange: from Thunberg to today”. Following the two lectures, a reception was held with greetings and a toast offered by H.E. Ambassador Jun Yamazaki, which then opened the floor for discussions Keynote speaker Prof. Emeritus Kojiro Nishina. among the participating JSPS Alumni, MEXT scholars, Japanese and Swedish researchers and students. On January 14, the 4th Sweden-Japan Academic The Embassy of Japan, the Japanese Association in Network was held at the Royal Swedish Academy of Stockholm and JSPS Stockholm Office had information Sciences (KVA), to promote and strengthen the booths where participants could find informative academic exchange between the two countries. The material on studies/research in Japan, Japan related event was organized by KVA, the Embassy of Japan and activities in Sweden, information from Swedish JSPS Stockholm Office. Universities etc. Opening remarks were given by Prof. Dan Larhammar, Please find a report of the event on page 12 by Prof. 3rd Vice President of KVA, followed by the welcome Imre Pázsit, Chalmers University of Technology. remarks of Mr. Takaaki Iwasa, Executive Director of JSPS. JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 5 2. News (2) Alumni JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden’s (SAC) 10-Year Anniversary Symposium
On January 15, the JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden (SAC) held its 10-Year Anniversary Symposium at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm. The symposium was organized by the Alumni Club’s working group members, led by SAC board members Prof. Imre Pazsit, Chalmers University of Technology, and Prof. Göran Thor, SLU Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. The theme of the symposium was the “Exchange History of Swedish and Japanese Researchers and Its Future”, a continuation of the 4th Sweden-Japan Academic Network. Director Hideo Akutsu opened the symposium and introduced Dr. Takaaki Iwasa, Executive Director of JSPS, who gave welcome remarks. Dr. Iwasa congratulated the Alumni Club on its 10-year anniversary, expressing hope for the Club’s future success. Invited keynote speakers were Prof. Emeritus Kojiro Nishina, Nagoya University, and Dr. Stefan Ekman, Uppsala University. Prof. Nishina gave a presentation on his late father titled “Yoshio Nishina and the birth of modern physics in Japan”. The late Prof. Yoshio Nishina is known for the Klein-Nishina formula for the scattering of light on electrons, and the formula was derived together with Swedish Physicist Oskar Klein at Niels Bohr’s Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark. Dr. Ekman’s presentation focused on Swedish botanist Carl Peter Thunberg, who visited Japan and published the “Flora Japonica”, the very first flora of Japan. The title of Dr. Ekman’s presentation was “Carl Peter Thunberg, Swedish botanist in Japan, now online”. Other speakers included Prof. Tomoko Nakanishi, the University of Tokyo, Prof. Janne Wallenius, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and others introducing their research collaboration with Japan. The program’s final speaker was Prof. Carl-Henrik Heldin, Ludwig Institute of Cancer Research, In the afternoon, the speakers and symposium participants were divided into small groups to discuss the future of the Alumni Club and its activities. The symposium was closed with an evening reception, where all participants could enjoy networking and eagerly exchanged views among each other. Please find a report by Prof. Imre Pázsit on the 4th Sweden-Japan Academic Network and the Alumni Club’s 10-Year Anniversary Symposium on page 12.
Mr. Takaaki Iwasa, Executive Director of JSPS, giving Prof. Emeritus Kojiro Nishina showing a photograph of his welcome remarks. father’s birthplace.
Group discussionon the Club’s activities.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 6 2. News (2) Alumni
SAC Activity Seminar FY2015: “Epigenetics in Disease and Well-Being”
relation to JSPS. Next, he introduced Director Hideo Akutsu, who presented JSPS and JSPS programs, encouraging the participants to apply to experience the research in Japan. He also informed of the activities and objectives of both JSPS Stockholm Office and the Alumni Club in Sweden. Director Akutsu’s introduction was followed by 5 presentations by speakers from Linköping and specially invited speaker from Japan, Prof. Takeo Kubota of Yamanashi University. Prof. Kubota’s lecture was titled “Epigenetic Alterations Induced by Environmental Stress Lecture by Prof. Takeo Kuboto, Yamanashi University. Associated with Metabolic and Neurodevelopmental Disorders”, such as his study on the Rett syndrome, a JSPS Stockholm Office has been offering financial neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutation in support to seminars organized by members of the MECP2 (Methyl-CpG-binding 2). The Rett syndrome is Alumni Clubs in Sweden (SAC) and Finland (ACF)These characterized by autistic features, epileptic seizures, seminars are selected by the board of each Alumni Club distinctive hand movements, and it is an x-linked among received applications. dominant disease which means that it almost exclusively On January 20-21, the second SAC Activity Seminar of affect females only. FY2015 was held at Linköping University. The theme of Following Prof. Kubota’s lecture, a discussion among all the seminar was “Epigenetics in Disease and Well- participants was carried out, and the first seminar day Being”, and it was organized by SAC member Prof. ended with an evening reception. Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez, IKE, Linköping University. The seminar was a success and attended by The seminar’s purpose was to gather researchers approximately 50 researchers and students, all eager to working in different aspects of comparative epigenetics, learn more. Each presentation was followed by several to provide a broad spectrum of research and current questions from the participants, leading to lively knowledge on trans-generational effects for graduate discussions and enriched knowledge. students, junior researchers and clinicians. Please find a report by Prof. Takeo Kubota on page 14. On the first day, Prof. Rodriguez-Martinez opened by JSPS Stockholm Office encourages alumni to take the giving a brief introduction to Linköping University, opportunity to organize activity seminars! followed by the background of the seminar and its Japan Alumni Forum 2016
Opening remarks were given by Minister Counsellor Yoshiaki Miwa, Embassy of Japan in Finland, followed by welcome remarks by Director Hideo Akutsu, JSPS Stockholm Office. The first presentation was given by Dr. Anna-Maria von Bonsdorff, Chief Curator & Japanomania Exhibition Project Manager, Ateneum Museum. The title of Dr. von Bonsdorff’s presentation was “Japanomania in the Nordic Countries 1875-1918”. Next, Ms. Tuija Seppänen, Japan House Project Coordinator, gave a presentation titled “Japan House in Director Akutsu giving welcome remarks. Ranua: Cultural Co-operation at the Grassroots Level”. The third and final presentation of the evening titled On February 9, the Japan Alumni Forum (JAF) 2016 “Finnair Growth in Japan: New Route to Fukuoka”, was was held in Helsinki for the 2nd time. The purpose of JAF given by Mr. Petri Vuori, Vice-President, Network is to create a framework where Finnish nationals who Planning, Finnair. have lived in Japan for an extended period of time due Following the presentations, the floor was open for to work, studies, research, and other exchange discussion and networking with the 127 participants programs, can meet, interact and network. The event happily sharing their precious Japan stories among was organized by the Embassy of Japan in Finland and fellows. JSPS Stockholm Office.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 7 2. News (2) Alumni
JSPS Alumni Club in Denmark Held the 2nd Board Meeting and the 1st General Assembly
On February 12, the newly established JSPS Alumni Club in Denmark held its second board meeting and the very first General Assembly at Technical University of Denmark (DTU). Both meetings were held prior to the Japan Alumni and Researcher Assembly 2016. From the JSPS Head Office in Tokyo, Prof. Emeritus Keiko Nishikawa, Inspector General, Mr. Kazunori Higuchi, Head of the Overseas Fellowship Division and Mr. Hisashi Sato, Section Chief of the Overseas Fellowship Division attended. At the board meeting, Mr. Higuchi gave an informative presentation on JSPS Alumni Clubs, mentioning the current number of established clubs, examples on activities, challenges the clubs face, and a brief exchange of views between the board and JSPS staff was carried out. The Club’s first General Assembly was followed and Chair Dr. Sam K. Steffensen opened the meeting, introducing the staff from JSPS Tokyo. Welcome remarks and an introduction of JSPS was given by Prof. Emeritus Nishikawa. Prof. Nishikawa also wished the newly established Alumni Club in Denmark a warm welcome as one of the 16 JSPS Alumni Clubs. All participants then introduced themselves, and the 9 attending JSPS fellows spoke of their research and JSPS experience. Dr. Steffensen gave then a presentation of the Club and introduced its purpose, the articles and the board. He also mentioned the BRIDGE Fellowship Program, an exclusive fellowship for former JSPS Alumni who are registered regular members in an official JSPS Alumni Club. Dr. Steffensen continued to introduce some of the Club’s past activities and the tentative activity plan for FY2016. The floor was then opened for discussion and the members exchanged views and ideas on possible activities and how to attract more Danish researchers to apply for JSPS Fellowship Programs. As a conclusion to the General Assembly, Prof. Emeritus Nishikawa presented the official JSPS Alumni Club membership badges to Dr. Steffensen to be distributed to all regular members. JSPS Stockholm Office congratulates the Alumni Club in Denmark on its establishment and encourages all former JSPS fellows in Denmark to register as members!
Discussionon future activities. General Assembly participants.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 8 2. News (2) Alumni
Japan Alumni and Researcher Assembly 2016
On February 12, the Japan Alumni and Researcher Assembly 2016 was held at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). The event was organized by the Embassy of Japan in Denmark, Tokai University Alumni Association Denmark, and JSPS Stockholm Office.. ………………………………………………………………………………………. Opening remarks were given by Mr. Kinji Shinoda, Counselor, Embassy of Japan, and welcome remarks were given by Prof. Emeritus Keiko Nishikawa, Inspector General, JSPS. The first presentation of the day was given by Assoc. Prof. Kenji Fukuda, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, titled “My Research Experience in Denmark”. Next, Prof. Birte Svensson, Technical University of Denmark (DTU), gave a presentation titled “Three Decades of Japanese-Danish Research Collaborations on Carbohydrate-Active Enzymes”. The third and final presentation was given by Mr. Atsuyuki Agawa, Director, General Affairs Finland and Northern Europe, Japan Airlines Co., Ltd., titled “Planning Your Next Trip to Japana – Suggestions from Japan Airlines”. After the presentations, representatives from each organizer gave information on scholarships for Danish students and researchers. Director Hideo Akutsu informed of the JSPS programs. The seminar was a success and a reception was followed, where the 70 participants actively exchanged views and information among each other. (A report on the event by Prof. Birte Svensson will be published in the next issue of our English newsletter.)
Assoc. Prof. Kenji Fukuda about his experience as a Prof. Birte Svensson on her long collaboration with foreign researcher in Denmark. Japan.
Mr. Atsuyuki Agawa giving travel suggestions to Participants minglingat the reception. Japan.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 9 3. Reports (1) Activities International Workshop on Flow Dynamics and Spintronics Toshiyuki Hayase, Institute of Fluid Science, Tohoku University
In order to promote the internationalization of the research and education, a liaison office of Tohoku University is placed in Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), and the collaborative research and student exchange have been conducted actively. International Workshop on Flow Dynamics and Spintronics was held in KTH on November 12th and 13th, 2015 to develop new researches by integrating the fluid science and spintronics and to promote collaborative researches between the both universities. This joint workshop held in this year between Tohoku University and KTH is the third time following the workshops held in 2013 and 2014. In this workshop, Assoc. Prof. Vassilios Kapaklis of Uppsala University and Dr. Randy Duman of University of Gothenburg participated in addition to researchers and students of Tohoku University and KTH, and 22 lectures were performed. The lectures regarding the fluid science on first day and the lectures regarding the spintronics and collaborative researches between Tohoku University and KTH on second day were conducted, and presentations about state-of-the-art research in both universities and discussions were conducted actively. In this workshop, two each keynote lectures concerning fluid sciences and spintronics were performed. Prof. Shigeru Obayashi, director of Institute of Fluid Science, Tohoku University, lectured about multi-objective design optimization method. He explained an application of Pareto optimal solution and data mining to the designs, and showed results of a domestic regional jet which was developed in industry-university cooperation as an example of the application. Prof. Ardeshir Hanifi of KTH lectured about a laminar-turbulent transition. He showed effects of variations of surface roughness and inlet velocity on the laminar-turbulent transition, and explained that delaying of the transition is important for reductions of the fluid resistance of airplanes. Prof. Seiji Samukawa of Institute of Fluid Science lectured about the development of technology regarding a neutral beam which is capable of the nano-scale processing. The technology enables the surface processing with high accuracy such as etching, and he showed that the technology is extremely important for the manufacturing of the nano-scale devices. Dr. Randy Duman of University of Gothenburg lectured about synchronous phenomena of the nano-contact spin-torque oscillators. He showed state-of-the-art researches such as the synchronous phenomena by arrangements of multiple elements. In 16 invited lectures, a variety of presentations including measurement-integrated simulation analyses, blood flow analyses for the medical applications, flow analyses for creations of high functional material in addition to the fundamental researches about turbulence in fluid science and studies for heat-fluid coupling problem in spintronics, and active discussions were conducted. Reports on progress of the collaborative researches between Tohoku University and KTH were also conducted and discussed actively. Owing to these discussions, this workshop promoted very fruitful exchanges which triggered new directions in discussions for the collaborative research, etc. This workshop leads the development of new fundamental researches integrating the fluid science and spintronics and promotions of the research cooperation between Tohoku University and KTH. We would like to deeply appreciate JSPS and the people involved.
Group photo.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 10 3. Reports (1) Activities Report of the International Conference Held at University of Helsinki Junichi Mori, Vice-President for International Relations, Director General, the Organization for the Promotion of International Relations, Kyoto University
Kyoto University’s SPIRITS (Supporting Program for Interaction-based Initiative Team Studies) project entitled “Philosophy as Translation and Understanding Other Cultures” recently held an international Symposium at the University of Helsinki, Finland from 16-18 December 2015. The event was held in conjunction with the Helsinki University and the Academy of Finland, with support from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (Stockholm Office) and the Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies. The event was a continuation of pioneering, globally aware work by Professor Naoko Saito (Kyoto University, Graduate School of Education), funded by Kyoto University beginning in 2014, that aims to deeply explore issues of recognition, cross-cultural understanding, and the role of philosophy in our contemporary world. With the advance of globalization, our awareness of cultural differences is growing more acute, as is our search for ways to overcome what divides us. The goal of this Symposium was to discuss the issue of ‘recognition’, a term that is at the very heart of cross-cultural understanding but nonetheless carries quite different nuances depending on the language and disciplinary field into which it is translated. Through the eyes of scholars in Finland and Japan, both peripheral to the Anglo-American core, the attempt was to contemplate deeply how geographical and cultural differences on the margins might open new perspectives on cultural understanding and co-existence. During the three-day event, the presenters took up the central issue of recognition from range of perspectives. Paul Standish (Institute of Education, London) first called attention to the difference between ‘recognize’ and ‘acknowledge’ in English, utilizing the distinction to deepen understanding around issues such as slavery, racial discrimination and Nazism. Sari Kivistö (Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies) and Sami Pihlström (University of Helsinki) then addressed the issue from a long-standing problem in Western theological studies: Why would an all powerful God allow humans to experience suffering? Beate Bengard (University of Leipzig) described how various Christian denominations overcame doctrinal differences, then contemplated if this might provide a viable model of global inter-faith dialogue.
There were also fascinating presentations that took up the significance of the humanities and philosophy for the field of education. Áine Mahon (University College Dublin) spoke about the role that literature can play in liberal arts education, arguing for an approach that cultivates human compassion/empathy and thus overcomes cultural divides. Risto Saarinen (University of Helsinki) painted an insightful picture of the various problems modern humans face in new technologies, illustrating through two major pieces of recent Scandinavian literature. Nobuo Kazashi (Kobe University) analyzed the influence of Emerson on modern Japanese thought and literature, particular through the life and works of Raichō Hiratsuka. Keiko Matsui Gibson (Kanda Gaigo University) followed with an analysis of a range of literary texts to glean insights into the complexities of defining human rights across cultures. On the final day young researchers and students from Kyoto University had the chance to share their developing ideas on the philosophical significance of recognition, as well as field comments from overseas researchers in ‘real time’ – an excellent learning experience for all. Throughout the three days, it became clear that the issue of ‘recognition’ was not merely an exercise in philosophical contemplation, but a pressing issue that touches various realms of contemporary life. Recent coverage of World events have suggested, for example, that European countries are opposed to immigration and admitting an increasing number of refugees. Yet the reality is that most places are already receiving people from other cultures, making philosophical reflection on the issue of recognition all that much more urgent and immediate. This Symposium also provided an important reminder of the critical role that Liberal Arts plays in education, particularly higher education. Philosophy and literature can provide a rich foundation to the next generation of researchers and practitioners, one that will carry them throughout their lives. This perspective is essential for on-going debates on how to reform universities in Japan. For all these reasons, we are extremely grateful to JSPS (Stockholm Office) for giving us this rare chance for global interaction and reflection.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 11 3. Reports (2) Alumni Report on “The 4th Sweden-Japan Academic Network” and “JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden 10-Year Anniversary Symposium” Imre Pázsit, Division of Subatomic and Plasma Physics, Chalmers University of Technology
Since the JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden (SAC) was established in 2005, it had its 10th anniversary in 2015. The JSPS Stockholm Office decided to celebrate this milestone by two, co-ordinated dedicated events. One of them was the annual Sweden-Japan Academic Network, organised jointly with the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences (KVA), and the other was a mini-symposium, specifically devoted to mark the 10-year anniversary. The JSPS SAC board called for suggestions and ideas for the topics of these two meetings, and an organising committee of the meetings was set up. Based on the selected topics, a keynote speaker from Japan was invited to give a talk at both events, and a representative of the JSPS Tokyo Office also took part. For organisational reasons, including the co-ordination of the two events, the meetings took place in early 2016: on the 14th and the 15th of January. The topics of the two events focussed on the history and the future of the exchange between Swedish and Japanese researchers. The special invited Japanese guest was Prof. Kojiro Nishina, emeritus from Nagoya University, son of the famous physicist Yoshio Nishina, who is widely considered as the founder of modern science in Japan. The 4th Sweden-Japan Academic Network took place on 14 January at the Beijer Hall of the premises of KVA in Stockholm, hosted by KVA, the Embassy of Japan and the JSPS Stockholm Office. After a video about Japan, the meeting was opened by Ms. Sayaka Shingu of the Embassy of Japan, with the opening remarks from Prof. Dan Larhammar, 3rd Vice President of KVA, and with welcoming remarks from Mr. Takaaki Iwasa, Executive Director of the JSPS Tokyo Office. This was followed by the two keynote lectures. Prof. Nishina talked about his father’s nearly 8 years long stay in Niels Bohr’s institute in Copenhagen, where he, together with the Swedish physicist Oskar Klein, worked out the famous Klein-Nishina formula for the quantum mechanical description of the scattering of light on electrons. He also told about his father’s efforts to build up modern science in Japan after his return to Japan in 1928 until WW2, mixed with many personal reminiscences of the fascinating life story of his father. The other keynote speaker was Prof. Karl Grandin, Director of the center for History of Science, KVA, who talked about the Swedish-Japanese scientific exchange from the beginnings (Carl Peter Thunberg) until today. He mentioned the Japanese Nobel prizes, and also the participation of Japanese scientists in the Nobel committee, of which much less known in Sweden and internationally. After the talks there was the usual mingling with delicious Japanese food. Ambassador Jun Yamazaki made a toast, after which Prof. Larhammar lended over a gift from KVA to Ambassador Jun Yamazaki, Mr. Takaaki Iwasa of JSPS and Prof. Kojiro Nishina. The event had nearly 100 participants, and was very successful.
Keynote lecture by Prof. Karl Grandin. Prof. Karl Grandin and Prof. Dan Larhammar gave a tour in KVA’s historical rooms.
The JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden 10-Year Anniversary Symposium took place on 15 January, at the underground hall of what once was the place for the first Swedish nuclear reactor, R1, on the campus of the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), which gave a special atmosphere. Dr. Hideo Akutsu, Director of the JSPS Stockholm Office opened the meeting and Mr. Takaaki Iwasa of the JSPS Tokyo Office gave opening remarks. Prof. Göran Thor, acting Chair of the SAC Board, gave a short introduction on the history and future of the JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden, and Prof. Imre Pázsit, SAC board member, talked about the Swedish-Japanese co-operation in nuclear energy, including his collaboration with Prof. Kojiro Nishina, one of the two keynote speakers of both meetings.
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In the first keynote talk, Prof. Nishina gave an extended talk about his father and his efforts in Japan including his visit to Hiroshima and Nagasaki after the bombs were dropped, but also on how the legacy of his father is preserved through the Nishina Memorial Foundation. The other keynote speaker was Dr. Stefan Ekman of Uppsala University, who talked about the life and work of the Swedish botanist Carl Peter Thunberg, who was the pioneering Swedish scientist doing research in Japan, including how his herbarium in Uppsala now has been scanned and made public on internet. Several more lectures were given in the continuation, the majority on on-going research in Sweden in collaboration with Japanese scientists in the areas of intercultural information ethics, mathematics, environmental effects of Fukushima, medicine and chemistry. One more Japanese scientist, Prof. Tomoko Nakanishi talked about the imaging of plant physiology by radioisotopes. Prof. Janne Wallenius talked about Oskar Klein, the co-author of the Klein-Nishina formula (O. Klein was affiliated to Stockholm University, and has a lecture hall dedicated to him in KTH). We also learned from Dr. Catharina Blomberg that Carl Peter Thunberg was not the first Swedish to put his feet on Japanese soil; he was preceded by the traveller Olof Eriksson Willman, the first Swede who managed to enter Japan, disguised as a Dutch merchant. He stayed in Japan between 1651-52 and published his travel experiences and observations after his return, which are of large historic value. Göran Thor also organised group discussions for the members on the future of the JSPS SAC, and collected valuable suggestions and expectations from the participants on how the SAC should function in the future. After the meeting, the participants were invited to a buffet dinner, which was served in another part of the reactor hall. The meeting was well visited by SAC members and non-member alike, including a journalist from the weekly technical magazine “Ny Teknik”, who published an article on Yoshio Nishina’s life after the symposium: http://www.nyteknik.se/popular_teknik/kaianders/article3957251.ece All in all, the two events gave a worthy and memorable marking of the 10-year anniversary of the SAC, promising a devoted membership and lively activity in the future.
Prof. Göran Thor. Dr. Stefan Ekman giving a keynote lecture.
Participants toasting.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 13 3. Reports (2) Alumni JSPS-Linköping University Seminar Takeo Kubota, Department of Epigenetic Medicine, Yamanashi University
I attended a seminar in Linköping University in January 20th–21st, 2016 with the support by the JSPS Stockholm Office. The title was “Epigenetics in disease and well-being: trans-generational disease vulnerability, does epigenesis explain it all?”, which is the hottest topics in recent molecular biology, because some evidence has been shown through the recent epigenetic studies that “acquired characters induced by environmental factors can be transmitted to the next generation” and this would be counterevidence against the Darwinism’s principle with 100 years history. In early morning of the 1st day, I visited Prof. Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez in the medical campus of Linköping University. He was the person who organized of this seminar. Then, he took me to a seminar room in the new campus for basic science by a shuttle bus. At the beginning of the seminar, Prof. Hideo Akutsu, the director of the JSPS Stockholm Office, introduced support for acceleration of collaborative research between Sweden and Japan. Then, professors and students in Linköping University presented their recent studies using various model species such as human, mouse, bird and drosophila. Thereafter, I presented our research entitled “Epigenetic alterations induced by environmental stress associated with metabolic and neurodevelopmental disorders” as a guest speaker, On the 2nd day, more clinical epigenetic research was presented, which includes epigenetic changes by assisted reproductive technology (ART) and mental stress. The seminar overall covered various field of epigenetics, and stimulated young researchers in the university to join epigenetic research. Thus, I think that it would be a kick-of meeting for collaboration between researchers in Linköping University. Before the seminar, when I left Japan for Sweden, my flight was delayed at Tokyo-Narita airport; this potentially affected the flight and train connections at Helsinki airport and Stockholm airport, respectively. However, Prof. Rodriguez-Martinez called me (my cellular phone) up place by place to guide not to miss the connection. Thanks to his great effort, I managed to arrive at Linköping station where his post-doc came to pick me up. After I came back to Japan from Sweden, the post-doc sent me an e-mail that he would like to study in Japan in the near future using the support program by JSPS. Soon after, I found a laboratory for him in his research field. I hope that he will be a mediator in research between Sweden and Japan. Lastly, I would like to thank Prof. Rodriguez-Martinez, professors, students and staffs in Linköping University for great hospitality and Prof. Akutsu, Ms. Tashima and the representatives in the JSPS Stockholm Office for kind support.
From left to right: Director Hideo Akutsu, seminar organizer Prof. Takeo Kubota in lecture. Prof. Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez, and Prof. Takeo Kubota.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 14 3. Reports (2) Alumni JSPS BRIDGE Fellowship Research Report (SAC) Niclas Bernhoff, Department of Mathematics, Karlstad University
My expectations on my second visit at Kyoto University Name: Senior Lecturer Niclas Bernhoff were very high, since my last visit in 2009 was very Affiliation: Department of Mathematics, Karlstad fruitful for me from so many points of view. University Nevertheless, this second visit was fulfilling my Host Institution in Japan: Kyoto University expectations, as it was as stimulating scientifically as the Host Researcher: Prof. Kazuo Aoki first one, but also from other points of view. It was really Title of research in Japan: ”Boundary-value problems of favorable for me to be able to come to such a stimulating the Boltzmann and related equations” environment again and being able to meet and discuss Fellowship period: 2015.11.05-2015.11.20 with such experts in the field. Half‐space problems for the Boltzmann equation are of great importance in the study of the asymptotic behavior of the solutions of boundary value problems of the Boltzmann equation for small Knudsen numbers. The Kyoto group of Prof. Aoki, Prof. Takata and Prof. emer. Y. Sone has under a long time considered problems related to these questions, both from a theoretical and numerical point of view. During my visit I concentrated my research on some specific questions related to half‐space problems for the Boltzmann equation presented below, but also on presenting and discussing my results for half‐space problems for the discrete Boltzmann equation and related discrete kinetic equations. 1. The problem of extending results obtained by Bobylev et al. (J. Stat. Phys. 2001) and by Sone, Takata, and Golse (Phys. Fluids 2001), on the basis of entropy Me and my host Kazou Aoki with matcha-tea and sweets at inequalities, for the evaporation/condensation problem the temple Hosen-in during a Sunday-visit to Ohara, a little for single species to the case of binary mixtures, was north of Kyoto. discussed thoroughly with Prof. K. Aoki and Prof. S. Takata. Both the case of two vapors as well as the case of successful existence results, for the non‐linear discrete a vapor and a non‐condensable gas was considered in Boltzmann equation. These results were compared with the discussions. I already had some first preliminary the numerical results of Prof. K. Aoki and co‐workers. results before my visit that were needed to be By my coming to Japan to do joint research, more completed and implemented. Thanks to our discussions active research interchanges were established, especially and my work during the visit, these results were with my host Prof. K. Aoki, and Prof. S. Takata at Kyoto improved, but further studies are still needed. Especially, University. However, I also had the chance to meet and the methods of Bobylev need to be implemented for discuss with their colleagues and students at the these generalizations (even if some first initial steps are department. It was also very interesting to meet and already made). This might be an issue for a possible discuss with another guest during the same period, Prof. common project with Prof. Takata. V. Giovangigli, from Ecole Polytechnique in Paris. 2. Half‐space problems for the case of a wall moving Actually, I was introduced to his work by a common with a constant speed can easily be incorporated in my colleague at a conference just a little more than two already obtained results for discrete kinetic equations. months before my visit in Kyoto, without knowing that However, the important case of an oscillating wall is not we will be visiting there at the same time. It was really a as direct to implement. Oscillating walls are of especial positive surprise for me to meet him there. interest in the studies of so called MEMS During my visit I held two research seminars. The first (micro‐electromechanical systems). During my visit this one was held at the host institution with the title problem was discussed with Prof. Aoki. Thanks to our “Boundary layers for the discrete Boltzmann equation: discussions I managed to obtain some first promising mixtures, polyatomic molecules, chemical reactions and steps in the studies of this interesting problem in the quantum extensions”, and gave rise to many interesting general discrete case. discussions about the content. 3. During my last visit at Kyoto University, studies of The other seminar was held at Tokyo Institute of boundary layers for a vapor in the presence of a Technology (TITECH), during my visit to Prof. S. Nishibata. non‐condensable gas were initiated, and later led to The title of this second seminar was “Half‐space
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Kawashima, in Comm. Math. Phys. 1999, 2000). In their work, in addition to proving existence of nonlinear boundary layers under certain assumptions, they also studied the stability of the solutions. I have improved and generalized these existence results by getting rid of most of the assumptions and applying them also for other discrete kinetic equations. However, the stability is not studied for these general solutions yet. My discussions with Prof. Nishibata touched this problem, and hopefully we can start a common project concerning this problem. At least, we both expressed this common intention. It was extra stimulating to meet and discuss with Prof. Nishibata, since we never had the opportunity to meet and discuss before. During my visit to TITECH, I also had the chance to meet and discuss with assist. Prof. M. Suzuki. View over Kyoto from the gardens of Ginkaku-ji (the Silver As a summary, I feel very well about my second visit in Pavilion) Japan supported by JSPS, and I hope it will lead to even more collaborations and interesting results. I also problems and shock profiles for discrete kinetic strongly hope that I will have the chance to follow it up equations”, and gave rise to many interesting questions with another stimulating visit (or visits) in the future. during the talk. It was also very interesting and stimulating to meet and discuss with Prof. Nishibata, who have done some important contributions directly related to my work (in collaboration with Prof. S.
Many nice temples and gardens in Kyoto (even in the rain).
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 16 3. Reports (3) Meetings
December 10 JSPS President Yuichiro Anzai’s Courtesy Call to H.E. Ambassador Jun Yamazaki From JSPS Headquarter Office in Tokyo, Dr. Yuichiro Anzai, President, Mr. Hiroshi Ando, Head of the International Policy Planning Division, and Ms. Ayaka Sasagawa, Head of the Research Cooperation Division, visited Sweden and paid a courtesy call to H.E. Ambassador Jun Yamazaki, Embassy of Japan in Sweden. From JSPS Stockholm Office, Deputy Director Yuriko Kawakubo also participated, and the parties discussed the international exchange between Sweden and Japan.
11 JSPS President Yuichiro Anzai visits JSPS Stockholm Office (December 11) Dr. Yuichiro Anzai, President, Mr. Hiroshi Ando, Head of the International Policy Planning Division, and Ms. Ayaka Sasagawa, Head of the Research Cooperation Division, visited JSPS Stockholm Office to discuss the academic exchange between Japan and Sweden. Director Hideo Akutsu and Deputy Director Kawakubo explained the activities of JSPS Stockholm Office and academic exchange situation in the Nordic and Baltic countries.
16 Visit to Hokkaido University Helsinki Office Deputy Director Kawakubo visited the Hokkaido University Helsinki Office to meet with Deputy Director Tero Salomaa. Mr. Salomaa informed of his visits to universities and research councils in Latvia and Lithuania. Further, they exchanged views and ideas on a possible seminar collaboration next fiscal year.
18 Visit by Ms. Mariko Takeuchi, Embassy of Japan in Norway Ms. Mariko Takeuchi, 3rd Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in Norway, visited the office to meet with Director Akutsu and Deputy Director Kawakubo. They discussed the expansion of a network for Japanese researchers in Norway and how to increase the exchanges with local researchers.
January 7 Visit by Mr. Shoma Fujii, Waseda University student Waseda University student Mr. Shoma Fujii visited Sweden through a study abroad program, and he visited the office to learn more about the activities of JSPS Stockholm Office and the network of Japanese researchers in Sweden.
13 Visitors from Osaka University and Uppsala University Prof. Atsushi Nakagawa, Assistant Prof. Eiki Yamashita, Specially Appointed Assistant Prof. Akifumi Higashiura, Dr. Yusuke Nakamichi, Research fellow, all from Osaka University’s Institute for Protein Research, and Dr. Kenta Okamoto, researcher at BMC, Uppsala University, visited the office to discuss details of a symposium to be held next year. Director Akutsu and Deputy Director Kawakubo explained the activities of JSPS Stockholm Office.
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14 Visit to STINT Mr. Takaaki Iwasa, Executive Director of JSPS and Ms. Eriko Kitajima International Program Associate, visited STINT and met with Executive Director Andreas Göthenberg and Program Manager Mattias Löwhagen. Director Akutsu accompanied the visitors from Japan, and the parties exchanged views on bilateral exchange projects, the JSPS Summer program, and the systems of higher education in Sweden and Japan.
15 Visit to the Nobel Museum Mr. Takaaki Iwasa, Executive Director of JSPS, Mr. Yusuke Nakakane, International Program Associate, visited the Nobel Museum and discussed the current situation of science and technology research environment in Sweden and Japan together with Olov Amelin, Museum Director, Katarina Nordqvist, senior curator, and Eva Windrup, senior curator. Director Akutsu accompanied the visitors from JSPS.
25 Visitors from Lund University and Uppsala University Prof. Olov Sterner, Dean at Faculty of Science, Sonia Coelho Sutton, International coordinator, Henrik Hofvendahl, International coordinator at Strategic Partnerships and Networks, all from Lund University, and Prof. Leif Kirsebom, Director at Uppsala Biomedical Center (BMC), Uppsala University visited JSPS Stockholm Office. They informed of the follow-up of Japan and Sweden university presidents’ summit held in Japan, and views on the strengthening of university exchanges between Sweden and Japan.
26 Visit to KTH Royal Institute of Technology Director Akutsu, Deputy Director Kawakubo and International Program Associate Michiko Murakami, visited KTH Royal Institute of Technology and met with Prof. Gustav Amberg, Vice President for Faculty Development and Gender Equity at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Torkel Werge, KTH international relations adviser, Prof. Maria G Masuccis, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for International Affairs, Karolinska Institutet (KI), Dobril-Philip Petkov, international coordinator, KI, Prof. Anders Karlhede, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Science Academic Area, Stockholm University (SU), and Elisabet Idermark, Senior Advisor, international relations, SU. They discussed the Symposium and Summer School with the University of Tokyo as a follow-up of the Japan and Sweden’s university presidents’ summit, and information about the exchange situation with Japanese universities was shared. In addition, an explanation of JSPS Stockholm Office’s activities was given by Director Akutsu and Deputy Director Kawakubo.
February 1 Visit by Prof. Takashi Kadowaki of the University of Tokyo (February 1) Prof. Takashi Kadowaki University of Tokyo, was invited to give lectures in Sweden in the KVA-JSPS Seminar scheduled on February 1 to 3. Prof. Kadowaki visited the office to discuss the seminars, and information on the office’s activities was provided.
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11 Visitors from JSPS Headquarter Office in Tokyo On the occasion of the establishment of the JSPS Alumni Club in Denmark, Prof. Emeritus Keiko Nishikawa, Inspector General, Mr. Kazunori Higuchi, Head of the Overseas Fellowship Division, and Mr. Hisashi Sato, Section Chief of the Overseas Fellowship Division of JSPS, visited Sweden and the JSPS Stockholm Office. Views on activities and budget for FY2016 were exchanged.
18 Visit to the Research Council of Norway Deputy Director Kawakubo visited the Research Council of Norway (RCN), and met with Bjørn Tore Kjellemo, Director, Department for Cooperation and Development Research, Julie Christiansen, Senior Adviser, and Merethe Moe, Senior Adviser. They discussed future planned projects, possible collaboration, and ideas were exchanged on how to increase applicants to the JSPS Fellowship Programsin Norway.
18 Attendance to the Dinner by H.E. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden and the Royal Technology Mission 2016 Director Akutsu attended a dinner held in Tokyo, organized by H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden and the Royal Technology Mission in conjunction with their visit to Japan.
22 Visit to Lithuania Director Akutsu and Deputy Director Kawakubo visited the Research Council of Lithuania and the Embassy of Japan. They learned about present academic exchange with Japan, and challenges. Views on a possible future cooperation were exchanged.
24 Visit to Prof. Maria G Masuccis, Karolinska Institutet Director Akutsu and Deputy Director Kawakubo visited Prof. Maria G Masuccis, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for International Affairs, and Dr. Dobril-Philip Petkov, International Coordinator, Karolinska Institutet, to discuss details of an event to be held next year.
24 Visit by Prof. Bjorn E. Christensen, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Prof. Bjorn E. Christensen, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), visited JSPS Stockholm Office to discuss possible support for the Kyoto International Forum for Environment and Energy (KIFEE). Director Akutsu and Deputy Director Kawakubo explained the international exchange activities of JSPS.
26 Visit by Assoc. Prof. Helga Tabuchi, Yokohama National University Assoc. Prof. Helga Tabuchi, Yokohama National University, was in Sweden for the study of intellectual property law in Sweden and Norway, and she paid a visit to JSPS Stockholm Office. Views on activities, international exchange with Nordic and Baltic countries were shared.
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 19 4. Column
Robot Farm in Japan to Produce Lettuce
Japan is a country well-known for its advanced development and scientific achievements within robotics. In previous columns, we have introduced fascinating robots such as the astronaut robot “Kirobo”, the robot which accompanied astronaut Koichi Wakata. In this issue’s column, the concept of using robots within food industry is briefly introduced. With Japan’s ageing population rapidly growing and the decrease of childbirth, the country is facing challenges, one of which is labour shortage. With lack of labour, Spread, vegetable producer, has announced the opening of Japan’s first indoor robot farm in Kameoka, Kyoto prefecture. The farm is planned to open in 2017 and the robots will produce lettuce. Except for one task, these robots will do everything from re-planting seedlings, watering, trimming and harvesting crops. With this innovation, the robots are estimated to boost lettuce production from 21 000 to 50 000 lettuces a day, with plans to increase production to half a million a day within 5 years. Concerns of robots completely taking over and replacing humans have always been voiced, but in this case, Spread assures that human staff will still be necessary, as planting seeds is the only task the robots will not handle. Humans and robots will work together. This new robot farm is an extension of the Kameoka farm, and it is estimated to reduce labour costs by half and improve production efficiency. The farm will be using LED lighting, which will also reduce energy costs by almost a third, and about 98% of the water needed for the crops will be recycled. Spread has high ambitions for their robot farm and hope to expand to all over Japan and overseas in the future. With this farm, Spread wants to encourage young people to become more interested in farming and agriculture. Considering the fact that Japan’s population is ageing, the agricultural sector is shrinking as well, with the average age of farmers being in their 60’s and older. By introducing robots, will the young generation become attracted to agriculture?
Source: http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/feb/01/japanese-firm-to-open-worlds-first-robot-run-farm
Illustrations: Robot https://pixabay.com/sv/android-robotics-maskin-robot-150996/ Lettuce https://pixabay.com/sv/sallad-isberg-veggie-vegetabiliska-40289/
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 20 5. Academic Information H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf visited Japan with the Royal Technology Mission
From February 16-19, 2016, H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf visited Japan with the Royal Technology Mission (RTM), a delegation trip arranged by the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA). The RTMs have been arranged around the world since 1984 on the King’s initiative, and his majesty takes part in these trips together with distinguished Swedish business leaders, representatives from universities and authorities. The RTMs are focused on technology, science and industry, with the purpose to foster new relations and collaborations between Sweden and the host country. The theme for 2016’s mission was modern Japan and the transformation the country needs to make to take advantage of its strengths, and to meet new challenges. The delegation led by IVA Chairman Leif Johansson, visited the Tokyo Skytree Tower on February 16, and learned about the technology behind the tall structure. In the afternoon, Business Sweden in Tokyo gave a presentation on Japan, the world’s third largest economy and Sweden’s second largest export in Asia. A dinner hosted by Magnus Robach, Sweden’s ambassador to Japan, was held later in the evening. The schedule of the second day included visits to Hitachi, the University of Tokyo and Tokyo Women’s Medical University, where the delegation were informed about topics such as various business-related, technological and strategic challenges, energy research in Japan after the Fukushima nuclear accident, research and innovation systems, and more. On the third day, the delegation visited Miraikan, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, where they observed exhibitions on robotics and space, and a press conference was held to which Japanese media were invited. In the afternoon, the delegation visited the companies FujiFilm and Canon, and the day was concluded with RTM’s official dinner for invited guests. On the fourth and final day, the delegation travelled to Nagoya with Japan’s high-speed train Shinkansen, and visited Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Toyota. When the delegation returned to Tokyo in the afternoon, they met with Prime Minister Shinzō Abe and discussed topics such as economy, technology and science. The visit to Japan was concluded with a dinner and discussions with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko.
Demonstration of the robot ASIMO at Miraikan. Photo: Edvard Fleetwood, Sweden-Japan Foundation.
Sources: Swedish Royal Court http://www.kungahuset.se/royalcourt/royalfamily/latestnews/latestnews/thekingvisitsjapanwiththeroyaltechnologymission.5.274 e83ca152f4410091788.html
IVA (Swedish only) • Visit to the Tokyo Skytree tower http://iva.se/publicerat/h.m.-konungen-med-iva-besoker-varldens-hogsta-tv-torn/ • Visit to Miraikan http://iva.se/publicerat/presskonferens-och-mote-med-robot-for-h.m.-konungen/ • Visits to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Toyota http://iva.se/publicerat/iva-pa-besok-pa-toyota-och-mitsubishi-i-japan/ • Meeting with Prime Minister Shinzō Abe http://iva.se/publicerat/h.m.-konungen-i-iva-delegation-traffade-japans-premiarminister-shinz-abe/
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 21 5. Academic Information Prof. Tomoko M. Nakanishi, the University of Tokyo, Elected as Foreign Member of IVA In September 2015, Prof. Tomoko M. Nakanishi, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the University of Tokyo, was elected as foreign member to the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA). Prof. Nakanishi could unfortunately not participate in the Academy’s formal gathering to accept the certificate in person. However, in conjunction with the Royal Technology Mission visit to Japan in February, Prof. Nakanishi was invited to a dinner where she was officially welcomed as member of IVA, and she received her certificate of membership from the hands of his majesty the King. A foreign member elected to IVA is someone who resides outside of Sweden, has made outstanding contributions in the field of the Academy’s business and has shown particular interest in developing contacts with Swedish research and Swedish industry. Prof. Nakanishi’s discoveries opens up for more resource-efficient and sustainable cultivation of food crops, and she is also the leader of a major investigation of the radioactive consequences for animals and plants around Fukushima. JSPS Stockholm Office would like to congratulate Prof. Nakanishi for her splendid achievements!
Prof. Tomoko M. Nakanishi, Björn O. Nilsson, President Prof. Tomoko M. Nakanishi receiving her certificate of of IVA, and Leif Johansson , Chairman of IVA. membershipfrom H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf. Photo:Edvard Fleetwood, Sweden-JapanFoundation. Photo:Edvard Fleetwood, Sweden-JapanFoundation. Source: IVA (Swedish only) http://www.iva.se/publicerat/danica-kragic-jensfelt-lars-strannegard-och-tre-ytterligare-invalda-i-iva/
University of Bergen and Norwegian University of Science and Technology Unite to Strengthen Collaboration with Japan
University of Bergen (UiB) and Norwegian University of • link research and education activities to the business Science and Technology (NTNU) unite to establish a community. collaboration with the Trade and Technology Office UiB is currently collaborating with Japanese partners (Innovation Norway) of the Norwegian Embassy in Japan, within fields such as Japanese linguistics, climate, marine, by the creation of a new position as adviser at the office. energy and polar research, and will aim to develop The project will run for two years, and the purpose is to collaboration within new fields such as health sciences, further strengthen the universities’ existing research and social sciences and law. educational collaboration with Japan with funded NTNU has collaboration with Japanese partners within projects, publications, mobility for researchers and fields such as physics, mathematics, neuroscience, students. To achieve its goal, the project will take energy, environment, and also has a separate Japan measures such as: Program. NTNU has since 2003 led the Kyoto • strengthen UiB and NTNU’s relationship with International Forum for Energy and Environment(KIFEE). partners in Japan, A news article about the KIFEE symposium held in • provide advice and information to NTNU and UiB on September 2015 can be found in the previous JSPS Japanese institutions, Stockholm newsletter, vol. 22 on page 4. • create meeting arenas for researchers, students and management, Source: • facilitate the exchange of students and staff between Embassy of Norway in Japan NTNU, UiB and Japanese universities, http://www.norway.or.jp/Embassy/english/news/uib_ntnu_jap an2015/#.Vt_h--bOORQ
JSPS STOCKHOLM 2016 Vol. 23 • 22 6. Notice Upcoming Seminars & Symposia March 21 IVA-JSPS Seminar The second IVA-JSPS seminar in the FY2015 series will be held on March 21, 2016. Invited speaker Mr. Hiroshi Nakaso (to be confirmed) , Deputy Governor, Bank of Japan, will deliver a lecture on challenges toward financial stability and the policy frontier.
Date: March 21 (Monday), 17:30-19:00 followed by dinner (optional) Venue: The Wallenberg Auditorium, IVA ’s Conference Center, Grev Turegatan 16, Stockholm Theme: "The Japanese Economy - challenges and future perspectives" Keyonote Speaker: Mr. Hiroshi Nakaso (to be confirmed), Deputy Governor, Bank of Japan Moderator: Klas Eklund, Senior Economist, SEB Presentation/obituary and moment of silence for Robert Stenram: Edvard Fleetwood, Sweden-Japan Foundation Commentor: Stefan Ingves, Governor, The RIksbank Registration: Please register for the seminar and the dinner at: http://www.iva.se/event/the-japanese-economy- outlook/ The cost of the optional dinner is 400 SEK. Participation in the seminar is free of charge.
Please find more information on http://www.jsps-sto.com/activities.aspx
Subscribe to JSPS Newsletter If you are interested in receiving our newsletter by e-mail, please send us information on Cover: Plum blossoms your name, title, affiliation and e-mail address to: [email protected]. Our newsletters are also available on our website for reading online.
JSPS Stockholm Newsletter #23 Published on: March 18, 2016 Editors: Yuriko Kawakubo & Marika Tashima Address: JSPS Stockholm Office, Retzius Väg 3, 171 65 Solna, Sweden By ” DeltaWorks” Tel: +46(0)8-524 84561 https://pixabay.com/sv/plu Website: http://www.jsps-sto.com/ E-mail: [email protected] m-v%C3%A5ren-plum- blossoms-r%C3%B6d-japan- 279858/ JSPS STOCKHOLM 2015 Vol. 21 • 13